The size of suture material is measured by its width or diameter and is vital to proper wound closure. As a guide the following are specific areas of their usage:
- 1-0 and 2-0: Used for high-stress areas requiring strong retention, i.e. deep fascia repair
- 3-0: Used in areas requiring good retention, i.e. scalp, torso, and hands
- 4-0: Used in areas requiring minimal retention, i.e. extremities. Is the most common size utilized for superficial wound closure.
- 5-0: Used for areas involving the face, nose, ears, eyebrows, and eyelids.
- 6-0: Used on areas requiring little or no retention. Primarily used for cosmetic effects.